When seeking mental health support in Pleasant Hill, CA, you will find a variety of services offered by therapists through online therapy. Whether you are dealing with difficult emotions or looking for personal growth, finding the right therapist is crucial. 

Therapists in Pleasant Hill often utilize expressive arts therapy and other evidence-based approaches to help clients develop effective coping mechanisms. This can be especially beneficial for those who have experienced perinatal loss or other significant life changes. Residents of Contra Costa County and nearby Walnut Creek have access to compassionate care tailored to their specific needs.

If you are seeking therapy, it's important to find a professional who can help you navigate through difficult emotions such as stomach dropping and throat clenching sensations. Therapists in this region often specialize in helping women manage unique challenges and stressors.

Therapy can be a valuable tool for personal growth and emotional healing, enabling you to build resilience and improve overall well-being. Whether you are new to therapy or looking to continue your mental health journey, Pleasant Hill offers a supportive environment for your needs.

Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

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Psychologist Chris (Christopher) McKillop providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Chris (Christopher) McKillop

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 10581, CA LPCC 17895
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepression
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, Maine and North Carolina, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients understand and manage depression, anxiety, and stress, with a particular focus on anger management strategies. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills. My therapeutic style is grounded in respect for each person's unique journey, with a commitment to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. Through collaborative and personalized treatment, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, gain emotional insight, and create positive change in their lives. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, professionalism, and genuine care.

Psychologist Laurie Richardson providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Laurie Richardson

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 132096
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

Having returned to grad school to become a therapist at the midpoint of my life, I bring a wealth of knowledge from being a parent, a preschool teacher, a 7th grade Waldorf teacher, an art instructor, a graphic designer and copyrighter, and an art consultant for over 20 years. My school trajectory took me from UCLA to San Jose State to Sac State, a Waldorf training college and finally to San Francisco's CIIS. As I've entered the field of being a therapist, what I've learned is that the act of becoming a therapist means you are a good listener and humbled each time a human being opens their heart to you. To that end, I work diligently to understand and tailor each treatment I design to work specifically with the client in front of me. I relish the empathy and dignity of Person-Centered Therapy because I firmly believe that each person knows themselves best and can apply what they learn when they are given the tools and perspective to see solutions within the framework of the very problems they brought to therapy in the first place. Being an EXA therapist means that I employ the Expressive Arts (poetry, rap, photography, 2D and 3D art, dance, sculpture, writing, drama, music, gardening, and cooking, and eco-art) into the healing process. The art becomes another tool and a living testament to the fact that healing is happening. My style of therapy focuses upon being sensitive, empathetic with a healthy dash of questions. My sessions are usually filled with interactive games, art, laughter, meditation and yes, breakthroughs and tears - all the range of possible human expression. People tell me they come away from their session feeling happier, lighter, clearer and understood. I have great compassion for the people I see, whether via telehealth or in-person. My goal is to be fully present, listening, supporting, acknowledging and empowering you forward, however that next chapter appears. Looking forward to chatting with you soon!

Psychologist Jude Patton providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Jude Patton

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT LMFT140542, WA LMFT LF00001250
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSleeping disordersDepressionADHD
46 years offering treatment

I am an older out/open/proud transgender man. I have expertise and extensive experience in serving transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming clients. I prefer to serve my own community members, but do not discriminate against others. I am licensed as a therapist in California and Washington, as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), with 45 years of professional counseling experience. My professional background also includes having worked as a Psychiatric Physician Associate for 43 years, and as a sex educator and sex therapist. Before my career in human medicine and mental health, I worked for 20+ years as a Veterinary Medical Assistant and understand the value of animal companions and of the natural environment in supporting healthy living. I have experience in treating clients who have ADHD, an autism spectrum disorder, chronic pain/chronic illness, and/or end-of-life concerns, sleeping disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started. I am looking forward to working with you to find solutions to reach your goals in therapy.

Psychologist Leslie Moya providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Leslie Moya

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LCSW CSW.09927482, TX LCSW 57763
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Mexico and Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist James Goodwin providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

James Goodwin

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 51474, NC LMFT 2018
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Mark Daniels providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Mark Daniels

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9713
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
43 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Mark A. Daniels, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 45 years of direct clinical experience in the public and private sector. I have worked with consumers with a wide range of challenges and concerns that include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem, career issues, and anger management. I also have expertise working with culturally diverse consumers, and consumers who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. I have also worked extensively with consumers within the forensic psychiatric arena including state prisons, county jails, and state hospitals. My therapeutic interventions are supportive, interactive, validating, and nonjudgmental. I embrace treating everyone with respect, compassion and with unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive behavioral interventions, humanistic, mindfulness, and psychosocial interventions. I will tailor our dialogue, and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Everyone has value and are important in life's journey, sometimes we need to share each other's strength to make it from Monday to Tuesday. Congratulations on your decision to seek empowerment and to enhance your current emotional being. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. Together we will work to access your inner strength, wisdom and talent to help you become stronger and better than ever before. You don't have to do this alone. Sincerely, Mark A. Daniels, LCSW

Psychologist Brandy Walker providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Brandy Walker

Clinician
License Type(s): GA LCSW CSW007874, CA LCSW 109682
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 20 years. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as: LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, parenting problems, anger management and the like. Life is an individual journey with many different experiences. Sometimes those experiences can lead to turmoil, tragedy, trauma and pain. The pain can feel debilitating as if moving on is merely impossible. However, I am a firm believer that there are solutions to all of life’s problems, and I believe therapy is a gateway to change. Those changes can transform an individual’s life. Thus, the road to therapy begins with one single step. If you are willing to take the first step, the journey of healing and transformation can begin. By understanding your mindset, increasing self-awareness, and practicing mindfulness, you can have significant benefits on your overall well-being. My job is to provide you with tools that you need to rebuild your life and sense of self. If you are willing to do the work, the benefits and possibilities are endless. Investing in therapy can be a rewarding experience, and it can be the key to a more fulfilling life. I am here for you every step of the way as you blossom from a caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, writing, listening to music, meditating and praying. I am eager to help you begin your journey of self-discovery.

Psychologist Denise Gutirrez-Miller providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Denise Gutirrez-Miller

Clinician
License Type(s): OK LCSW 22223, CA LCSW LCSW87095
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California and Oklahoma with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I have worked with many populations, from developmentally disabled to SED teens to adults. I enjoy meeting people and seek to make others' lives better. I would love to work with you and help you become the best version of yourself. I am a born-again Christian and available for those needing to understand themselves according to Scripture. My availability is 10am to 4pm Central Time.

Psychologist Matthew Poje providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Matthew Poje

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 4911-125, CA LPCC 11515
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuse
17 years offering treatment

Welcome! My name is Matt Poje, LPCC. I specialize in the healing of emotional trauma, using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). I have 15 years working with Veterans via Department of Defense contracts, and over 23 yrs of professional work experience. I am licensed in CA and WI. The ITR method uses over 100 years of neuroscience to help heal the brain. Since ITR uses neuroscience, you will learn the steps of the ITR method that will help you to become more resilient. ITR is not talk therapy in the classical sense. ITR is a focused, purposeful method of trauma healing and proven to work. If you are ready to work on a proven method of reducing symptoms of trauma, I look forward to work with you. I do not perform diagnostic tests. I use screening tools, and therefore will not provide any letters to employers or court systems. Before scheduling a session, watch the ITR video: https://vimeo.com/752151441

Psychologist Dr. Virginia Christophe providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Dr. Virginia Christophe

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-22925, CA LPCC 18211
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
36 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas with over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing women's issues, workplace challenges, and the unique emotional landscapes of midlife and young adulthood. My practice is rooted in understanding multicultural experiences and providing compassionate, nuanced support across diverse backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I'm particularly skilled at supporting individuals through difficult experiences like divorce, caregiver stress, chronic health challenges, and family dynamics. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past wounds, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. My goal is to empower you to build resilience, find meaning, and create positive change in your life.

Psychologist Dr. Raoul Kaufman providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Dr. Raoul Kaufman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 15382
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefEating disordersParenting issuesSelf esteemCoaching
40 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Doctor of Mental Health in California with 40 years of experience. Throughout my career, I have supported clients dealing with grief and loss, eating disorders, parenting challenges, and issues related to motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I approach each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I believe in creating personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs. Taking the step toward a more fulfilling and joyful life requires courage, and I am here to support and empower you on that journey toward positive change.

Psychologist Erica Nolasco providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Erica Nolasco

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 107651
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

My name is Erica Nolasco, I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. My passion is helping indivduals overcome trauma, divorce, depression, anxiety, self-doubt and addiction. I welcome individuals and families to a safe nonjudgmental space with the goal of providing each client long lasting healing, personal growth and happiness. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Bobbie Paul providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Dr. Bobbie Paul

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29201
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 32 years of professional work experience. I have training and experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, depression and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I am confident we can develop the necessary tools so you can prevail over your current challenges and achieve your goals. If you wish to know more about my approach to therapy visit my website at https://www.bobbiejpaul.com.

Psychologist Grace Lu providing different types of therapy in Pleasant Hill

Grace Lu

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 151683
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I have worked extensively with a diverse patient population, such as adolescents in high-school settings, geriatrics, those with developmental differences, and those with dual diagnoses, among others. Although predominantly trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, I also work from a humanistic model, maintaining a humble and tentative stance, since I believe empathy, compassion, and attunement are at the bedrock of the relational dynamic. I am committed to working with you to improve your overall mental and emotional health and well-being, through a collaborative effort.

Find a Therapist Near You in Pleasant Hill , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Pleasant Hill.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Pleasant Hill can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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